Washington, 29 July (H.S.): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump for additional anti-ballistic missile systems and interceptor missiles, stressing that strengthening Ukraine's air defence network remains the country's most urgent military requirement amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Speaking to reporters after meetings with President Trump and U.S. senators in Washington on Tuesday, Zelensky said Ukraine has significantly improved its ability to counter drone attacks but continues to face serious challenges in defending against ballistic missile strikes.
The real problem is anti-ballistic systems and anti-ballistic missiles, Zelensky said, adding that he had outlined Ukraine's defence requirements during his discussions with American leaders.
The Ukrainian leader noted that domestically developed drones, along with Western-supplied systems, have enabled Kyiv's forces to intercept and destroy many Iranian-designed and Russian-operated drones. However, he said ballistic missiles remain a major threat because they travel at extremely high speeds and require advanced missile defence systems for interception.
Ukraine has repeatedly urged its Western allies to expand military assistance, particularly in the form of sophisticated air defence systems capable of intercepting ballistic missiles targeting cities, energy infrastructure and military installations.
Zelensky's visit to Washington comes at a critical stage in the conflict, as Russia continues long-range missile and drone attacks across Ukraine. Kyiv has warned that sustained international military support will be essential to protecting civilian populations and maintaining its defensive capabilities.
The United States remains one of Ukraine's largest security partners, having provided billions of dollars in military assistance since the conflict began. Discussions in Washington are expected to focus on strengthening Ukraine's air defence, accelerating defence cooperation and coordinating future security assistance.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
